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The book, Paradiso, is an epic poem that tells the story of the narrator's journey through the heavenly realm, guided by his beloved Beatrice. The poem is divided into 33 cantos, each of which explores a different aspect of the heavenly realm and the nature of God's love. Throughout the poem, the narrator encounters various blessed spirits, including historical figures, biblical characters, and mythological beings, who share their stories and insights with him. The poem also explores themes such as the nature of sin and redemption, the importance of faith and hope, and the corruption of the Church and the world. Ultimately, the narrator's journey culminates in a vision of the Trinity and the Virgin Mary, and he is transformed by the experience, gaining a deeper understanding of God's love and the nature of the universe. The poem is a masterpiece of medieval literature, exploring complex theological and philosophical ideas through beautiful and evocative language.
The narrator finds himself in a heavenly realm, where he is prepared to embark on a new journey. He invokes the power of Apollo to guide him and grant him the ability to express the wonders he has seen. As he gazes at the sun, he is filled with a sense of longing and awe, and his guide, Beatrice, helps him to understand the nature of the universe and the order that governs it. She explains that all things have a natural inclination to move towards their destination, and that the universe is guided by a divine providence. The narrator is amazed by his own ascent and struggles to comprehend the nature of his journey, but Beatrice reassures him that his movement is a natural part of the universe's order. With her guidance, the narrator begins to grasp the underlying principles of the universe and his place within it.
The narrator and Beatrice continue their ascent into the heavenly realm, and the narrator is warned that the journey will be challenging for those who follow. Beatrice explains that their movement is guided by a divine providence, and they arrive at the first star, where the narrator is struck by a wondrous sight. He asks Beatrice about the dark spots on the moon, and she responds by arguing against his initial explanation that the spots are caused by differences in density. Instead, she explains that the spots are a result of diverse virtues and formal principles that produce different effects. She uses the analogy of mirrors and light to illustrate her point, and then explains how the heavenly spheres operate, with each sphere containing and distinguishing different essences. The Intelligence that turns the spheres is the source of their power and motion, and it diffuses its virtue among the stars, producing diverse effects. Beatrice concludes by explaining that the differences in light and darkness are a result of the formal principle that produces them, according to its goodness.
The narrator encounters a group of blessed spirits, including Piccarda, who was a virgin sister in the world. She explains that she and the others are in the lowest sphere of heaven because they did not fulfill their vows, but they are still blessed and content. The narrator asks if they desire a higher place, but Piccarda responds that their will is quieted by charity, and they wish only for what they have. She explains that it is essential to this blessed existence to keep oneself within the will of God, and that their very wishes are made one with His. The narrator then asks Piccarda about her life and how she came to be in this sphere, and she tells him about how she was forced to leave her convent and how her life became corrupted. She also introduces him to another spirit, Costanza, who was also a nun and was returned to the world against her will. After their conversation, Piccarda and the other spirits vanish, and the narrator's sight returns to Beatrice, who flashes a bright light into his eyes, leaving him questioning and seeking more understanding.
The narrator is torn between two doubts, and Beatrice recognizes his inner turmoil. She addresses his questions, first explaining that the blessed spirits they encountered earlier are not in a lower heaven because they are less worthy, but rather because they are being shown to the narrator in a way that is adapted to his understanding. She also clarifies that the souls in heaven do not return to the stars, as Plato suggested, but rather are in different degrees of beatitude. Beatrice then turns to the narrator's second doubt, which concerns the relationship between free will and violence. She explains that will is never quenched unless it wills to be, and that even if someone is forced to act against their will, they are not excused from responsibility if they do not resist with all their might. The narrator's doubts are resolved, and he is filled with a sense of wonder and gratitude. He then asks Beatrice another question, inquiring whether it is possible for someone to make up for broken vows with other good deeds, and Beatrice's response is delayed as she gazes at him with loving eyes, leaving him momentarily overcome.
The narrator's question about making up for broken vows is addressed by Beatrice, who explains that the freedom of the will is the greatest gift from God and that vows are a sacrifice of this treasure. She emphasizes that vows cannot be compensated for with other good deeds, and that the Church's dispensation in this matter requires careful consideration. Beatrice also warns against taking vows lightly and urges Christians to be faithful and serious in their actions. As she finishes speaking, she turns towards the second realm, and the narrator follows, entering a new heaven where they are greeted by over a thousand blessed spirits. The spirits welcome Beatrice, and one of them invites the narrator to ask questions, which he does, inquiring about the identity and station of the spirit. The spirit responds by increasing its radiance, and the narrator is left in anticipation of the spirit's answer, which will be revealed in the next part of the journey.
The narrator, Justinian, recounts his life and how he was inspired by God to reform the laws and remove unnecessary and redundant aspects. He explains how he came to believe in the single nature of Christ and was guided by the supreme pastor, Agapetus. Justinian then discusses the history of the Roman Empire, from its founding to its conquests and triumphs, and how the standard of the empire was revered and respected. He criticizes those who oppose or misuse the standard, including the Ghibellines and the Guelfs, and warns against the dangers of partisanship and the misuse of power. The narrator also touches on the theme of justice and how it is essential to the proper functioning of society. He concludes by mentioning the example of Romeo, a just and virtuous man who was wrongly accused and punished, and how his story serves as a reminder of the importance of living a virtuous life and seeking justice.
The narrator's doubts are addressed by Beatrice, who explains the nature of sin and redemption. She discusses how humanity's sinfulness led to its downfall and how God's justice and mercy are intertwined. Beatrice clarifies that God's decision to redeem humanity through the incarnation of the Son of God was the most worthy and just mode of redemption, as it allowed for the restoration of humanity's perfect life. She also explains that the creation of the world and its elements are informed by a created virtue, and that the soul of every living being is attracted to the divine. The conversation concludes with Beatrice hinting at the idea of resurrection, suggesting that the narrator consider how human flesh was originally created to understand the possibility of its resurrection.
The narrator and Beatrice ascend to the third heaven, where they encounter a group of blessed spirits, including a soul who introduces himself and explains that he is a spirit who was on earth for a short time, but had a significant impact. The spirit discusses the importance of living a virtuous life and how evil lordship can lead to suffering. He also touches on the theme of providence and how God's plan is intertwined with human nature. The narrator asks the spirit to clarify how evil can arise from good, and the spirit responds by explaining that God's providence is a power that guides the universe, and that the effects of this power can be seen in the diversity of human nature and the varying offices that people hold. The spirit concludes by emphasizing the importance of following one's natural inclinations and not trying to force people into roles that are not suited to them, lest they become evil or corrupted.
The narrator continues his journey, guided by Beatrice, and encounters two blessed spirits, Cunizza and Folco. Cunizza speaks of her life and the region of Italy where she was from, warning of impending troubles and injustices that will befall the cities of Padua and Vicenza. She also mentions the corruption of the clergy and the prioritization of worldly power over spiritual matters. Folco then shares his story, speaking of his past loves and passions, but notes that in heaven, there is no repentance, only a sense of wonder and awe at the divine plan. He introduces Rahab, a soul who was taken up into heaven before all others, and praises her role in the triumph of Christ. The conversation concludes with a critique of the corruption of the Church and the city of Rome, which has strayed from its spiritual roots and become mired in worldly concerns.
The narrator, accompanied by Beatrice, ascends to a higher realm of heaven where they encounter a group of blessed spirits, including Thomas Aquinas, who introduces himself and other notable figures such as Albertus, Gratian, and Peter. These spirits form a circle around the narrator and Beatrice, singing in harmony and discussing their earthly lives and contributions to the Church. Thomas Aquinas explains that he was a member of the Dominican order and points out other notable figures, including Augustine and Isidore. The narrator is in awe of the beauty and harmony of the spirits, and the scene is compared to a celestial music, with each spirit adding their unique voice to the chorus. The narrator is particularly drawn to the light of Sigier, a philosopher who taught in Paris and was known for his logical arguments. The canto concludes with a description of the heavenly music, which is beyond human comprehension, and the narrator's sense of wonder and joy at being in the presence of such beauty and wisdom.
The narrator reflects on the fleeting nature of human pursuits, contrasting them with the eternal glory of the heavens. Beatrice shines brighter, and the narrator hears a voice that addresses his doubts and explains the concept of Providence, which guides the world with counsel. The voice then tells the story of St. Francis, who was born in Assisi and rose to become a sun of virtue, bringing comfort to the earth. Francis's love for Poverty, personified as a lady, is likened to a romantic love story, and his concord with her is said to have inspired holy thoughts in others. The voice praises Francis's determination, humility, and devotion, and notes that his order was recognized by the Church. However, the voice also laments that Francis's flock has become greedy and scattered, and that few remain faithful to his teachings. The narrator is left to ponder the meaning of the voice's words, which contain a rebuke to those who stray from the path of virtue.
The canto begins with a description of the heavenly realm, where two groups of blessed spirits form garlands around the narrator and Beatrice. A voice emerges from one of the new lights, praising the leader Dominic, the founder of the Dominican order, who was born in Calahorra and was a champion of Christian faith. The voice recounts Dominic's life, his devotion to his faith, and his role in assisting Christ in his garden. It highlights his great teachings, his battle against heresy, and his request for permission to defend the faith. The voice also laments the current state of the Dominican order, which has strayed from its original path. The canto concludes with the voice introducing other notable figures, including Bonaventure, Hugh of Saint Victor, and Joachim, who are all part of the heavenly company. The narrator is left in awe of the beauty and harmony of the spirits, and the scene is filled with a sense of wonder and joy.
The narrator attempts to describe a wondrous sight in the heavens, where two groups of blessed spirits form a double dance, symbolizing the harmony of the divine nature and the union of the human and divine in one person. The spirits sing of the divine nature, and their dance is beyond human comprehension. One of the spirits, likely Thomas Aquinas, breaks the silence to address the narrator's doubts and explain the nature of creation and the relationship between the divine and human. The spirit discusses how God's power creates and sustains the universe, and how all things are infused with a spark of the divine. The conversation touches on the idea that human nature is imperfect and that even the best of humanity's creations can be flawed. The spirit also warns against making judgments without careful consideration, citing examples of philosophers and theologians who have gone astray in their interpretations. The canto concludes with a message of caution, urging the narrator and the reader to approach truth with humility and to avoid making hasty judgments.
The chapter continues with Beatrice posing a question to the blessed spirits about the nature of their existence and the light that surrounds them. The spirits respond in harmony, singing and explaining that their love and radiance will continue to grow and increase as they are reunited with their fleshly bodies. They also assure that the splendor of their light will not be diminished by the return of their bodies, but rather will be augmented by the increased capacity for pleasure and joy. The narrator is then transported to a higher level of heaven, where he witnesses a dazzling display of light and color, and hears a beautiful melody that is beyond human comprehension. The lights form a cross, symbolizing the presence of Christ, and the narrator is filled with a sense of wonder and awe. He becomes so enamored with the beauty of the heavenly realm that he forgets about his earthly desires and is fully absorbed in the joy and splendor of the divine.
The narrator encounters a blessed spirit who introduces himself as Cacciaguida, the narrator's ancestor. Cacciaguida recounts his life in Florence, describing the city's simplicity, peace, and virtue during his time. He praises the women of Florence for their modesty and fidelity, and notes the city's contentment with its simple way of life. Cacciaguida also shares his experiences as a soldier, following Emperor Conrad and fighting against the forces of injustice. He expresses his joy at being reunited with his descendant and encourages the narrator to shorten his ancestor's time in Purgatory through his good works. The spirit's words are filled with a sense of nostalgia and admiration for the past, and he concludes by sharing his own story of martyrdom and entry into the peaceful realm of Heaven.
The narrator's ancestor, Cacciaguida, continues to share his wisdom and insights about the past and present state of Florence. He laments the decline of the city's nobility and the rise of new families who have brought corruption and instability. Cacciaguida recounts the history of various families, including the Ughi, Catellini, and Buondelmonti, and notes how they have contributed to the city's problems. He also criticizes the intermingling of people from different backgrounds, which he believes has led to the city's maladies. Cacciaguida expresses nostalgia for the simpler, more virtuous times of the past and warns that all things, including cities, are mortal and subject to decline. He concludes by describing the peaceful and just state of Florence in his time, where the people lived in harmony and the city was not yet plagued by the conflicts and divisions that would later arise.
The narrator expresses his desire to know about his future, and Beatrice encourages him to ask the blessed spirit, who reveals that the narrator will be forced to leave Florence due to the city's corruption and the actions of those who "buy and sell Christ" every day. The spirit warns the narrator that he will face hardships, including the pain of exile, the difficulty of relying on others for support, and the company of foolish and ungrateful people. However, the spirit also offers words of comfort, advising the narrator to rely on the courtesy of a mighty Lombard and to trust in the virtue of a young man who will become notable for his achievements. The spirit concludes by encouraging the narrator to speak the truth, even if it is difficult or offensive, for it will ultimately leave a lasting and nourishing impact on those who hear it. The narrator is then reassured by the spirit that his words will be a testament to his honor and that he should not fear to share his vision with others.
The narrator is still in the presence of Beatrice, who is guiding him through the heavenly realm. He is filled with wonder and awe as he gazes at her, and she encourages him to look beyond her to the greater beauty of Paradise. The narrator's attention is drawn to a cross, where he sees a series of blessed spirits, including Joshua, Judas Maccabeus, Charlemagne, and others, who are moving in a dance-like motion. The spirits are arranged in a pattern that spells out a message in Latin, "Diligite justitiam," or "Love justice," and the narrator is struck by the beauty and significance of this sight. As he continues to gaze at the cross, he sees the figure of an eagle take shape, formed by the lights of the blessed spirits. The eagle is a symbol of justice, and the narrator is filled with a sense of wonder and admiration for the beauty and wisdom of God's creation. He also expresses his concern about the corruption of the Church and the world, and prays for God's guidance and intervention to restore justice and righteousness.
The eagle, a symbol of justice, appears before the narrator and begins to speak, addressing his doubts and questions about God's justice and the fate of those who do not believe in Christ. The eagle explains that God's justice is beyond human comprehension and that it is not for humans to judge others, as they have limited vision and understanding. The eagle also discusses the concept of free will and how it is not constrained by external factors, but rather by the individual's own desires and choices. The conversation then turns to the topic of faith and salvation, with the eagle stating that no one can enter the kingdom of heaven without faith in Christ, but also warning that many who claim to be Christians will be far from him at the judgment. The eagle then prophesies about the future, revealing the fate of various kingdoms and leaders, and condemning their sins and corruption. The narrator is left to ponder the eagle's words, which offer a glimpse into the eternal judgment and the workings of God's justice.
The eagle, a symbol of justice, continues to speak to the narrator, explaining the nature of God's justice and the fate of those who do not believe in Christ. The eagle discusses the concept of free will and how it is not constrained by external factors, but rather by the individual's own desires and choices. The conversation then turns to the topic of faith and salvation, with the eagle stating that no one can enter the kingdom of heaven without faith in Christ. The eagle also explains the story of two blessed spirits, one who was a singer of the Holy Spirit and another who was a poor widow, and how they came to be in heaven. The narrator is amazed by the eagle's words and asks for clarification on certain points, and the eagle responds by explaining the concept of predestination and the limitations of human understanding. The eagle concludes by warning mortals to restrain themselves from judging others, as even those who look on God do not yet know all the elect. The narrator is given a "pleasant medicine" to cure his short-sightedness, and the eagle's words are accompanied by the movement of the blessed lights, which adds to the beauty and wonder of the scene.
The narrator's journey continues as he gazes at his Lady, Beatrice, and is warned that her beauty is so great that it could overwhelm him if not tempered. They ascend to the seventh splendor of heaven, where the narrator sees a stairway of gold and a multitude of blessed spirits. He asks one of the spirits about its presence and the silence of the heavenly music, and the spirit responds that it has descended to welcome him and to speak with him. The spirit explains that it is not smiling or singing because it is not necessary in this realm, and that its love is burning just as intensely as the others. The narrator then asks why this spirit was chosen for this office, and the spirit explains that it is due to a divine light that pierces through it, allowing it to see the supreme essence and to flame with joy. The spirit also warns the narrator not to presume to understand the eternal statute and to be humble in his questioning. The spirit then reveals its identity as Peter Damiano, a hermit who lived in a cloister and was called to serve as a bishop, and criticizes the modern shepherds of the Church for their corruption and excesses. The canto concludes with a multitude of little flames descending and revolving around Peter Damiano, and a loud cry that is like thunder.
The narrator, still in awe, turns to Beatrice for comfort and guidance. She reassures him and explains that the events unfolding in heaven are a result of good zeal and divine providence. The narrator is then introduced to a group of illustrious spirits, including Saint Benedict, who founded the Benedictine order and drew people away from idolatry. Saint Benedict criticizes the corruption of the Church and the decline of monastic life, lamenting that the rules he established are now mere waste paper. He also denounces the practice of usury and the insanity it brings to the hearts of monks. The narrator is then urged by Beatrice to follow the spirits upward, and he does so with great speed. As he ascends, he reflects on the glory of the stars and acknowledges the virtue and genius they have imparted to him. Beatrice reminds him to look back at the world he has left behind and to present himself to the triumphant throng with a joyful heart. The narrator gazes back at the seven spheres and sees the Earth as a small, insignificant globe, and he smiles at its ignoble semblance. He also sees the planets and their movements, and the temperateness of Jupiter is revealed to him. Finally, he turns his eyes back to Beatrice's beautiful eyes, ready to continue his journey.
The narrator's journey continues as he gazes at Beatrice, who is filled with ecstasy and joy. She points out the hosts of Christ's triumphal march and the fruit harvested by the rolling of the spheres. The narrator sees a sun that enkindles all the lamps and is overwhelmed by its intensity. Beatrice reassures him that he has become strong enough to tolerate her smile, which is a virtue that overmasters him. The narrator's mind expands as he beholds the divine, and he becomes unable to remember what he has seen. Beatrice invites him to look at her smile, which is beyond human description. She encourages him to turn to the garden fair, where the Rose, symbolizing the Word Divine, is blossoming. The narrator sees troops of splendors illuminated from above and hears a beautiful melody that is beyond human comprehension. A little torch descends from the heavens, forming a circle like a coronal, and the lights resound the name of Mary. The regal mantle of the volumes of the world extends over the narrator, and he sees the gleams of whiteness reaching upward, revealing their deep affection for Mary. The spirits sing "Regina coeli" with such sweetness that the delight never departs from the narrator. The canto concludes with the narrator reflecting on the exuberance garnered up in the richest coffers, where the treasure acquired while weeping in exile is enjoyed and lived upon, and the triumph of the exalted Son of God and Mary is celebrated.
The narrator is examined by a blessed spirit, likely Saint Peter, on his understanding of faith. The spirit asks the narrator to define faith, and he responds by quoting the definition from the Bible, stating that faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. The spirit then asks the narrator to explain why he believes this definition to be true, and the narrator provides a philosophical explanation, stating that faith is a substance that underlies all things and an evidence that guides human understanding. The spirit presses the narrator further, asking him how he knows that the Bible is the word of God, and the narrator responds by citing the miracles and works of Christ as proof. The spirit then asks the narrator to express his own beliefs, and the narrator declares his faith in one God, sole and eternal, who moves all the heavens with love and desire. He also expresses his belief in the Trinity, stating that he believes in three eternal persons, one essence, and one God. The blessed spirit is pleased with the narrator's response and gives him his benediction, singing and circling around him three times.
The narrator continues his journey through the heavenly realm, guided by Beatrice. He encounters a blessed spirit who is asked to speak about hope, and the spirit explains that hope is the certain expectation of future glory, which is the effect of divine grace and merit. The narrator then shares his own understanding of hope, citing the Scriptures and the teachings of the chief singer, who is believed to be David. The spirit is pleased with the narrator's response and expresses gratitude for his words. The scene then shifts to a celebration of hope, with the blessed spirits singing and shining brightly. The narrator becomes dazzled by the light and is reminded that his body remains on earth, while his soul ascends to the heavenly realm. The canto concludes with the narrator turning to look for Beatrice, but she is no longer visible to him, leaving him disturbed and searching for her presence.
The narrator's vision is restored after being quenched by a radiant flame, and a voice speaks to him, encouraging him to declare his aim and compensate for his lost sight. The narrator expresses his love for the Good that gives contentment to the heavenly Court and explains that his understanding of faith is based on philosophical arguments and authority. He discusses the nature of love and how it is enkindled by the comprehension of good, and he affirms his faith in one God and the Trinity. The voice then asks the narrator to reserve his highest love for God and to proclaim how many "teeth" this love has. The narrator responds by explaining that various factors, including the being of the world and his own being, have drawn him to God's love. After the narrator finishes speaking, a sweet song resounds throughout heaven, and his Lady, Beatrice, says "Holy, holy, holy!" along with the others. The narrator then asks about a fourth light he sees and is told that it is the first soul created by God, who gazes upon its Maker. The narrator supplicates this soul, who is Adam, to speak to him, and Adam reveals that he can discern the narrator's wish without him uttering it. Adam then shares his story, including his time in the Garden of Eden, his exile, and the language he spoke, which was extinct before the time of Nimrod. Adam explains that the tasting of the tree was not the cause of his exile, but rather the overstepping of bounds, and he discusses the nature of language and how it changes over time.
The narrator witnesses a magnificent sight in heaven, with all of Paradise singing in harmony and Beatrice shining brighter. A blessed spirit, likely Saint Peter, speaks to the narrator, condemning the corruption of the Church and the world. The spirit criticizes the Church's pursuit of wealth and power, and laments the decline of its original purpose. The narrator is then shown a vision of the universe, with the celestial spheres and the motion of the stars. Beatrice explains the nature of this motion, stating that it begins from the Mind Divine and is driven by love and power. The conversation turns to the theme of covetousness and how it corrupts humanity, and the narrator is warned that the world is devoid of true leadership, leading to chaos and disorder. The canto concludes with a prophecy of a coming tempest that will bring about change and a return to the true path, with the promise that the fleet will run its course direct and the true fruit will follow the flower.
The narrator is still in the presence of his Lady, Beatrice, who explains the nature of the heavenly circles and how they are connected to the universe and God's love. She tells him that the circles are wide and narrow according to the amount of virtue distributed throughout them, and that the greater goodness works the greater weal. The narrator is then shown the different orders of angels, including the Seraphim, Cherubim, and Thrones, and how they are arranged in a hierarchy. Beatrice explains that the blessedness of the angels is founded in their faculty of sight, and that their merit is measured by their ability to see the truth. The narrator is also introduced to the concept of the three Divine orders: the Dominions, Virtues, and Powers, and how they are connected to the Principalities, Archangels, and angelic sports. The canto concludes with a reference to Dionysius and Gregory, who wrote about the orders of angels, and how they were inspired by the truth revealed to them in heaven.
The chapter begins with Beatrice gazing at the narrator with a smile, and after a period of silence, she starts speaking. She addresses the narrator's questions about the creation of angels and their nature, explaining that they were created in a single instant, along with matter and form, and that their creation was an act of God's love. Beatrice also discusses the hierarchy of angels and their roles, as well as the fall of some angels due to pride. She criticizes the misconceptions about angels held by people on earth, particularly the idea that they have a limited understanding and need to recollect information. Beatrice emphasizes the importance of humility and adherence to the Holy Writ, condemning the practice of preaching false or distorted ideas. She also denounces the corruption and greed of some preachers, who prioritize appearances and wealth over the truth. The chapter concludes with Beatrice highlighting the vastness and complexity of God's creation, using the metaphor of mirrors reflecting the divine light, and emphasizing the diversity and uniqueness of each creation.
The narrator's journey through the heavenly realm continues as he is guided by Beatrice. He witnesses a magnificent sight, with all of Paradise singing in harmony, and Beatrice shines brighter. The narrator is then shown a vision of the universe, with the celestial spheres and the motion of the stars. Beatrice explains the nature of this motion, stating that it begins from the Mind Divine and is driven by love and power. The conversation turns to the theme of covetousness and how it corrupts humanity. The narrator is warned that the world is devoid of true leadership, leading to chaos and disorder. A prophecy is revealed, speaking of a future leader, Henry, who will bring order to Italy, and a Prefect who will be thrust down for his corruption. The narrator is shown the Rose Eternal, a symbol of Heaven, and beholds the vastness and beauty of the heavenly city, with its seats filled to overflowing. The narrator's vision is expanded, and he comprehends the quantity and quality of the gladness in Heaven, where the natural law is irrelevant, and God immediately governs.
The narrator is in the presence of a multitude of blessed spirits in Heaven, where he sees a vision of the saintly host and the celestial spheres. He is guided by an Old Man, who is later revealed to be Saint Bernard, and is told to look for Beatrice in the third rank of the first circle. The narrator sees Beatrice and is overcome with emotion, expressing his gratitude for her guidance and salvation. Saint Bernard instructs the narrator to gaze upon the garden of Heaven, to discipline his sight and prepare him for further ascent. The narrator is then encouraged to look upon the Queen of Heaven, who will grant him every grace. As he gazes upon the beauty of Heaven, the narrator sees a multitude of Angels and a beauty smiling, which fills him with joy and delight. Saint Bernard's affection for the Queen of Heaven is evident, and he encourages the narrator to behold her fervent fervor, increasing the narrator's ardor to gaze upon her.
The narrator, guided by Saint Bernard, gazes upon the blessed spirits in Heaven, including Rachel, Sarah, Rebecca, Judith, and others, who are seated in a hierarchical order. Saint Bernard explains that the spirits are divided into two groups: those who believed in Christ before his coming and those who believed after his coming. He also notes that the spirits are not seated according to their own merit, but rather according to the grace bestowed upon them by God. The narrator is then drawn to the beauty of the Virgin Mary, who is praised by the blessed spirits, and he is filled with admiration and joy. Saint Bernard points out various notable figures, including Adam, Peter, and Anna, and explains their significance in the heavenly hierarchy. As the narrator's vision comes to a close, Saint Bernard begins a prayer, asking for grace and guidance to aid the narrator in his journey, and encouraging him to follow his words and turn his heart to God.
The narrator, guided by Saint Bernard, prays to the Virgin Mary to grant him the power to see the highest salvation with his own eyes. Mary's eyes, filled with gratitude, turn towards the Eternal Light, and the narrator's sight becomes purified, allowing him to see more clearly. As he gazes at the High Light, his desire and will are transformed, and he sees three circles of color, symbolizing the Trinity. The circles seem to reflect each other, and the narrator is absorbed in the sight, trying to understand how the image of humanity conforms to the circle. However, his mind is not enough to comprehend this, and it is only through a flash of inspiration that he is able to glimpse the truth. The narrator's fantasy and desire are then transformed, and he is moved by the Love that drives the universe, including the sun and the stars.